Word
pairing
Phoneticspair·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpɛɹɪŋ/
UK/pˈeəɹɪŋ/
Definitions
01a combination of two things
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. the act of putting two things together because they work well or belong together.
n. the combination or union of two entities, often chosen for their complementary qualities.
“The chef suggested a wine pairing that would bring out the flavour of the fish.”
“The unexpected pairing of a classical violinist with a modern electronic producer resulted in a surprisingly cohesive and popular album.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02political agreement
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Law Formal · Technical
n. an agreement between two politicians from opposite sides to both miss a vote so the result stays the same.
n. a formal arrangement between two members of a legislative body with opposing views to refrain from voting, allowing both to be absent without affecting the outcome.
“The two ministers arranged a pairing so they could both attend the international summit.”
“The government whip managed the pairing system carefully to ensure that the absence of several MPs for the funeral would not jeopardise the crucial legislation.”
Usage
Often used in the context of parliamentary procedure.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Pereira has continued to champion corn, recently making a Brazilian lemonade - which uses limes instead of lemons - and pairing it with corn milk.” “McCarthy or the confused centre-back pairing of Caleb Okoli and Harry Souttar repeatedly gave the ball away in and around the penalty area as the team created their own problems.” Word family
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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